Beginning Astronomy

There are countless targets to choose from out there in space so how do you choose which one to look for? Well first you need to decided what types of objects you want to look at. You can get an idea by looking at the chart below. Next you'll have to find out what objects are currently above. Since the earth rotates and travels around the Sun only certain objects will be visible at any given time during the day/night. You can check out the What's Up? section to find out what interesting objects are visible this month.

asteroids - There are numerous asteroids orbiting the sun. Although a difficult subject, some can be viewed and or photographed with the right equipment. You'll need a powerful scope and patience to spot one.

comets - Comets can be one of the most exciting things to see. New comets are being discovered often and usually can only be viewed for a short time. In photographs and sometimes visually the long tail can be seen.

galaxies - Galaxies are awesome sight for both viewing and photography. They are easily visible through a good scope. Our closest neighboring galaxy the Andromeda galaxy can sometimes be seen even with the naked eye on a very clear night without light pollution.

Moon - The moon has been a source of mystery for ages. It provides an excellent viewing target with many points of interest. This is easily one of most exciting targets for new comers and pretty much any scope will give great views of its features.

nebula- Massive clouds of dust and gas. There are many types of nebulae: emission, reflection and dark are a few. These are among the most beautiful targets to both see and photograph. The most famous probably being M42 - the Great Orion Nebula.

planets - Easily the most interesting visual target around besides the moon. Planets specifically Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn all have very distinct patterns. Even with a relatively cheap telescope the rings of saturn are clearly visible. You can make out the polar ice caps of mars and even see the giant red spot on jupiter.

stars - Stars can also be a great subject to view. You can search for many interesting targets including double stars. With the right equipment you can even look at our star, the Sun. NOTE: Never!!! look directly into the Sun with or without a telescope unless you are positive you are using the right equipment / filter.

star clusters - These are massive clusters of stars. There are 2 types, open clusters which are spaced out over great distances and globular clusters which are all packed very tightly together.